ABSTRACT
Bronchiectasis is defined as a chronic dilation of one or more bronchi. Macroscopically, bronchiectatic lung reveals permanent dilation of subsegmental airways that are inflamed, tortuous and often partially or totally obstructed with secretions. The process also includes bronchioles, and at end stage there may be marked fibrosis of small airways. The overall appearance microscopically is of chronic inflammation in the bronchial wall, with inflammatory cells and mucus in the lumen. There is destruction of the elastin layer of the bronchial wall, with a variable amount of fibrosis. Causes are widespread, with the majority being idiopathic, post-infective (usually in childhood) or secondary to immunodeficiency. Cystic fibrosis is also a significant cause.
